SHDSL -- Why Hasn't It Replaced SDSL?

Are you frustrated by the pace of connectivityGiven the financial state of Covad I can see why they
improvements? For how many years has (small)aren't going around ripping out all their DSLAMs.
business been stuck with SDSL for affordableThere may be some hope though, with the new
connectivity?Earthlink money they are upgrading DSLAMs to
SHDSL was supposed to supplant SDSL as of 2003support LPV and ADSL2 in larger markets. I *think*
(or so) I thought, but I never see advertised speeds gothat the new DSLAMs will also be offering new SDSL
beyond a 1.5 Mbps SDSL line... SHDSL goes to 2.3speeds as well, which probably means SHDSL (and
Mbps and has other advantages over SDSL (longerfinally the ability to hook a real router up to an SDSL
loop lengths for given speeds, less interference withline).
other data lines, 4-wire mode). I'm not that wellMost DS-1s today are delivered using either HDSL or
educated on the topic, but I also had the impressionHDSL2 on 1 or 2 pairs.
there could be some cost savings.Your ILECs aren't going to upgrade equipment
Today T1's are often delivered using this technology,necessarily because of the availability of a different
but why not offer SHDSL from the customer totechnology. Even with existing technology many
DSLAM like a normal dedicated DSL line.... and giveconsumers and businesses are in a fight just to be
customers the speed they want, distanceable to get ADSL services.
depending???Covad, XO, etc. that are selling SDSL services already
Are ISPs just not ready to upgrade their DSLAMmay not upgrade given their investment in existing
equipment, or don't want to cannibalize their higherequipment.... and given the state of competition now for
priced bonded T1 services?internet services.
You may not need the SLA of a real T1, but you'dWith the price of service dropping to $12.99/mo and
sure love 2.3 Mbps up and down for let's say $150/mothe uptake of those discounted services increasing, I
or so.wouldn't want to be one of the other players and be
First.... you have to look at who is selling SDSL.making large capital expenditures for upgrades right
Basically Covad and a few small CLECs. They boughtnow. I'd be worried about staying in business. People
non-standards-based SDSL long ago and they are stillare price driven.....
using the equipment.Just my opinion though, take it for what it's worth.